Sustainable Tourism

What is Sustainable Tourism?

Sustainable Tourism actively fosters appreciation and stewardship of the natural, cultural and historic resources and special places by local residents, the tourism industry, governments, and visitors. It is tourism which is viable over the long term because it results in a net benefit for the social, economic, natural and cultural environments of the area in which it takes place.

Parks Canada & Tourism Industry Association of Canada, 2005

What are the benefits of sustainable tourism?

Increase tourist visits to your establishment by promoting your sustainability credentials to ‘green-savvy’ consumers who make purchase decisions based on minimizing their own footprint.

Reduce operating costs by undertaking initiatives that reduce waste, water and energy consumption.

Develop a competitive advantage by establishing and promoting sustainable business practices as a point of difference.

Encourage investors interested in companies with long-term sustainability plans that minimize operating risks in the future.

Increase long-term profitability by putting plans in place now that will create savings in the future such as minimising transport costs that will continue to rise as fuel becomes more expensive.